Agencies Highlight Motorcycle Safety Awareness

Monday, April 23, 2007 | 07:00pm

NASHVILLE, Tenn., — May is National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.  The Tennessee Department of Safety, the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the Governor’s Highway Safety Office, Metro Nashville Police and motorcycle clubs across the state encourage motorcycle riders to educate themselves before taking to the roads.  They also remind drivers to respectfully share the roads with their two-wheeled counterparts.

“The number of motorcycle fatalities in Tennessee has doubled in the last 7 years,” stated Department of Safety Commissioner David Mitchell.   “Just last year, 134 motorcycle riders lost their lives on Tennessee roadways.  It’s important that everyone exercise caution on the roads.  Riders should wear clothing that helps them stand out in traffic, as well as a helmet.”   Tennessee law requires all motorcycle drivers and passengers to wear approved helmets.

The number of motorcycle fatalities in Tennessee jumped from 66 in 2000 to 134 in 2006, a gain of 105%.  The largest single increase during that time occurred in 2005, when the number of deaths jumped 40%, from 90 in 2004 to 126 in 2005.   Statistics for 2000-06 and a list of Motorcycle Safety Tips is attached to this release.

Governor’s Highway Safety Office Director Kendall Poole says motorcycle safety isn’t just the responsibility of the cyclist.  “Drivers of other vehicles should be courteous and aware of motorcycles around them, especially at intersections.  It’s equally important for auto and truck drivers to keep a safe distance from motorcycles on the roadway.  This allows the operator room to maneuver the motorcycle and avoid road hazards or adverse traffic conditions.”

Approximately 275,000 Tennesseans are licensed to operate motorcycles.  “Motorcycle riding is becoming more popular, but cyclists must understand that riding a motorcycle is different than driving a car,” said THP Captain Chip Miller.  “If you plan to operate a motorcycle, it’s imperative that you educate yourself by taking a professionally taught and accredited education course.”

The Department of Safety’s Motorcycle Rider Education Program approves courses and instructors across the state. To find out more about the program, go to: http://tennessee.gov/safety/mrep.htm

The Tennessee Department of Safety (www.tennessee.gov/safety) is responsible for ensuring the safety and general welfare of the traveling public.  The department’s general areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education and motorist services including the issuance of driver licenses.  The department and its highly trained staff of Troopers are responsible for safety on more than 15,000 miles of state and federal highways.

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